Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask His Majesty's Government what plans they have to undertake a public health campaign to encourage those with suicidal thoughts to engage with mental health services, and for family and friends to not be afraid to raise the subject of suicide.

The Suicide Prevention Strategy for England, published in 2023, identifies eight priority groups for targeted and tailored support at a national level, including people in contact with mental health services. The strategy also identifies key risk factors for suicide, providing an opportunity for effective early intervention.

The purpose of the suicide prevention strategy is to set out our aims to prevent suicide through action by the Government and other organisations. One of the key visions of the strategy is to reduce the stigma surrounding suicide and mental health, so people feel able to seek help, including through the routes that work best for them. This includes raising awareness that no suicide is inevitable.

The 10-Year Health Plan sets out ambitious plans to boost mental health support across the country. This includes transforming mental health services into 24/7 neighbourhood mental health centres, improving assertive outreach, expanding talking therapies, and giving patients better access to 24/7 support directly through the NHS App.